Snowboarding is a lot of fun! For beginners it might seem a little daunting to get straight out onto the slopes with your board, but fear not, we have some tips for you to stay safe and to enjoy!
Nov 22, 2018
Snowboarding is a lot of fun! For beginners it might seem a little daunting to get straight out onto the slopes with your board, but fear not, we have some tips for you to stay safe and to enjoy!
Embrace the Safety Gear – If you are new to the slopes you might be terrified of getting injured. Try to think positively and act as you would as a child, when you have little fear holding you back. Simple protective gear, like wrist guards and helmets, ensures that you don’t lose any mobility but that you have a safety net on soft areas of your body should you stumble. You are going to fall a few times as you are new and it’s about embracing that and not becoming disheartened with a few bumps along the way.
Practice on Soft Slopes – There is absolutely no need to learn how to snowboard in hard and icy conditions. Always wait until the snow has melted a little and the slopes are softer in the early afternoon. If you are to become a seasoned snowboarder you’ll have to understand the conditions and how it affects your ability to board. Start this process now!
Go Where the Powder Is – Always seek out the powder rather than following the same predictable tracks from the people in front of you. Why? Because it means you can feel weightless as you curve down the slopes. By looking away from the tracks you’ll also develop a mind for the more creative rides. Be aware that your eyes will lead your body, so as you move your head to look at where you want to be, your relaxed body will tilt towards that. Keep a relaxed body and mind and the boarding will come naturally.
Lean In – As you first take to the slopes it is only natural that you might be a bit timid leaning into the turns, as you are not used to it. Waiting for something to happen is the surest way to lose your balance and fall over. It’s about being confident and fully leaning into each turn, deliberately pushing your heels or toes and swinging your arms to maintain balance. Once you have done this a few times with success it’ll feel less like you’re trying to force it. Even if you feel a bit of an idiot, you can practice these things at home, in your living room, or out in your back garden. That way, when it comes to the actual slopes, the movements will feel a little more natural to you.
A Stylish and Practical Wardrobe – Everyone who snowboards wants to look cool, that’s a fact. Always make sure that you have the correct clothing for the slopes, as the last thing you want is to become cold during the day. There is plenty of down time after the thrill of speeding along on your board.
Ski Blanc offers quality yet affordable holidays in Meribel les Allues, with easy access to the huge 3 Valleys Mountain Playground where you can perfect your snowboarding technique! For more information contact our wonderful team.
